Systems and methods for measuring an applied force on an endovascular device

Abstract

A force meter for detecting force applied to an endovascular device includes a housing with a hollow tube disposed in the housing. The hollow tube is formed with a bend in the housing and extends between two exterior sides of the housing. The hollow tube is configured to receive the endovascular device. A member is disposed in the housing and is mechanically coupled to the hollow tube such that the member displaces when a force is applied to the endovascular device. An indicator is mechanically coupled to the member and is configured to present the force when the member is displaced.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING AN APPLIED FORCE ON AN ENDOVASCULAR DEVICEBACKGROUND

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of endovascular medical devices. Specifically, this disclosure is related to systems and methods for measuring the applied force on an endovascular device intended to pass through a blood vessel of a patient to a target area inside the patient’s body to perform a medical procedure.

[0002] An example of an endovascular treatment of the type relevant to this disclosure is the use of an endovascular device to treat narrowing, blockage, or hemorrhage in a blood vessel, including neurovascular, cardiovascular, and peripheral vasculatures. For instance, treatment of an acute stroke caused by a blockage of a blood vessel in the brain typically comprises either the intra-arterial administration of thrombolytic drugs such as recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA), mechanical removal of the blockage, or a combination of the two. These interventional treatments must occur within hours of the onset of symptoms. Both intra-arterial (IA) thrombolytic therapy and interventional thrombectomy involve accessing the blocked cerebral artery via endovascular techniques and devices.

[0003] Mechanical treatment typically involves the physical manipulation of the relevant structure to relieve the cause of the symptoms. For example, mechanical treatment of a blood clot involves the physical removal of the blood clot by various means, such as capturing the blood clot mechanically by use of a mesh, balloons, snares, or coils, with or without the addition of supporting techniques like the use of suction to remove the clot or stents to support the blood vessel. Another example of a mechanical treatment is the mechanical reshaping of blood vessels to improve blood flow, which is accomplished by the use of mechanical devices similar to those discussed above.

[0004] After this mechanical treatment is completed, the endovascular device is retracted from the blood vessel. Movement of the endovascular device in the body, and especially during placement and retraction, can cause damage to the blood vessels the endovascular device moves through because of the limited space between the endovascular device and the blood vessel walls. This issue is particularly relevant for endovascular devices that include an expandable portion, such as an expanded snare or mesh. This larger sectionincreases friction between the endovascular device and the blood vessel, which increases the risk of damage.

[0005] Current techniques to address this situation involve training the operator of the endovascular device and using imaging techniques to detect unwanted movement of blood vessels during the extraction process. Training ameliorates this problem to some extent, but relies on the skill of an individual operator, which can vary. Imaging also can be helpful but is reactive in nature because movement of a blood vessel during extraction would ideally be avoided entirely. Thus, there is a need for improved systems and methods to ensure excess force is not being applied during extraction of an endovascular device.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In an embodiment, a force meter for an endovascular device includes a housing; a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device; a member disposed in the housing and mechanically coupled to the hollow tube such that the member displaces when a force is applied to the endovascular device; and an indicator mechanically coupled to the member and configured to present the force when the member is displaced.

[0007] In an embodiment, a method of using a force meter to detect a tensile and / or compressive force applied to an endovascular device includes passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter according to embodiments of this disclosure; detecting a tensile and / or compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the member disposed in the housing; and displaying the tensile and / or compressive force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.

[0008] In an embodiment, a system for measuring a compressive force applied to an endovascular device includes the force meter of some embodiments; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.

[0009] In an embodiment, a system for measuring a force applied to an endovascular device, the force including a compressive force and a tensile force, the system includes the force meter of some embodiments; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.

[0010] In an embodiment, a force meter for an endovascular device includes a housing and a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device. There is at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend. A sensor is disposed in the housing and positioned in the outskirt of the bend, the sensor configured to sense a compressive force applied on the endovascular device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS / FIGURES

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles thereof and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the same.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an endovascular device according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a force meter for an endovascular device according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a side view of the force meter of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a side view of the force meter of FIG. 2 with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4A is a side view of a force meter with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 4B is a side view of a force meter with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a different side view of the force meter of FIG. 2 with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a side view of a force meter for an endovascular device with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 6A is a side view of a force meter with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 6B is a side view of a force meter with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a side view of a force meter for an endovascular device with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a system for measuring tensile force of an endovascular device according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a method for using a system for measuring the force applied to an endovascular device according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 10 is a partial side view of a force meter for an endovascular device with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 11 is a partial side view of a force meter for an endovascular device with housing portions removed according to an embodiment.

[0027] In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical or similar elements. Additionally, generally, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the drawing in which the reference number first appears.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such a feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0029] Placement of an endovascular device for performing a procedure, similar to removal of an endovascular device after performing a procedure, provides a risk of damage to the relevant blood vessels due to the pushing and / or pulling of the endovascular device from the blood vessels, which creates corresponding compressive and / or tensile forces on the endovascular device. According to a first embodiment, a tensile and / or compressive force measurement apparatus for an endovascular device is formed from a housing with a hollow tube configured to allow the endovascular device to pass through the housing. The hollow tube includes a bent portion that includes at least one support portion configured to restrictmovement of the endovascular device. A force sensor is located inside the housing and is configured to measure a force imparted by the endovascular device to the force sensor. Optionally, a passage is configured within the housing to receive the hollow tube, the passage being configured from one end of the housing to the other end of the housing.

[0030] Some benefits of these and other embodiments disclosed herein are an easy-to-use and accurate measure of the tensile and / or compressive forces being applied to the endovascular device. The disclosed apparatuses and systems continuously measure the tensile and / or compressive forces being applied and display the measured forces in a simple manner, allowing the operator of the endovascular device to have immediate and clear feedback on the forces being applied. This reduces the risk of accidental damage to the relevant blood vessels and thereby improves patient outcomes.

[0031] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an endovascular device 1 for use in performing endovascular procedures. Endovascular device 1 may be any type of endovascular device, including but not limited to, a device for accessing a location of interest or a device for performing a treatment at a location of interest, such as for example, a guidewire; a catheter, e.g., microcatheter, aspiration catheter; a stent; a balloon; a coil; a device for performing thrombectomy such as a stent retriever (including devices comprising a mesh or a snare); or an embolization assist device (such as devices comprising a mesh or a snare). Endovascular device 1 is generally sized and shaped to be at least partially inserted into a blood vessel of a patient. Endovascular device 1 includes a distal end 2 configured to be inserted into a blood vessel, and a proximal end 3 that is configured to remain outside of the patient. Optionally, a handle 4 is positioned at proximal end 3 for use by the operator to manipulate endovascular device 1. In some embodiments, portions of endovascular device, such as distal end 2, can include a mechanical treatment portion. Examples of devices comprising mechanical treatment portions include, but are not limited to, devices comprising an expandable mesh, devices comprising a snare, guidewires (e.g., steerable guide wires), balloon catheters, and stents. A force meter 100 is typically mounted to endovascular device 1 near proximal end 3 for measuring tensile (pulling) and / or compressive (pushing) force applied to endovascular device 1 during an endovascular procedure. Alternatively, endovascular device 1 is fitted through force meter 100 near proximal end 3 for measuring the tensile and / or compressive forces applied to endovascular device 1 during an endovascular procedure.

[0032] FIGS. 2-3 are a perspective and side view of an embodiment of force meter 100. A housing 102 forms the main body of force meter 100. Housing 102 of force meter 100 can be formed in any suitable shape, such as but not limited to, a rectangular, a square, a hexagonal, a tubular, a trapezoidal, an oval, or a round shape, can be tapered or non-tapered, can have a smooth surface or an uneven surface, or any combination thereof. According to one embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 2-3, housing 102 can be formed in a trapezoidal shape, with two opposite sides being longer than either of the other two sides. Housing 102 can be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to, metal (e.g., stainless steel, nickel alloys, titanium, titanium alloys, or combinations thereof), plastic (e.g., thermoplastic such as polycarbonate, polypropylene or polyethylene), silicone, or composite materials, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, housing 102 is shaped to be comfortably held by a user by hand. Housing 102 is configured to act as the supporting structure for the elements of force meter 100. According to some embodiments, housing 102 is at least partially hollow. According to a specific embodiment, housing 102 is configured to contain endovascular device 1 within and measure the tensile (pulling) and / or compressive (pushing) force on endovascular device 1.

[0033] Two valves 104 are found at the exterior of housing 102, with one valve 104 disposed at a first end of housing 102 and another valve 104 being disposed at a second end of housing 102. Valves 104 may be arranged linearly or non-linearly with respect to each other, as further discussed below. Force meter 100 may also be configured with no valves 104, or with only one valve 104 present at either end of force meter 100. Valves 104 are fluidly connected to an interior of housing 102, as will be discussed in detail below. Valves 104 are configured to allow endovascular device 1 to pass through and into housing 102 and into a patient’s body. According to one embodiment, valve 104 at the distal end of housing 102 is analogous to valve 104 at the proximal end of housing 102. According to one embodiment, valve 104 at the distal end of housing 102 is disparate from valve 104 at the proximal end of housing 102. According to a specific embodiment, valve 104 positioned at the distal end of housing 102 is configured as an adaptor valve for connecting housing 102 to a device for placement of endovascular device 1 in a patient’s body, such as a catheter e.g., a guide catheter. According to a specific embodiment, valve 104 positioned at the proximal end of housing 102 is configured as a passage valve enabling passage of endovascular device 1 through housing 102 and into a patient’s body. According to oneembodiment, each of valves 104 may create a fluid-tight seal around endovascular device 1. According to a specific embodiment, valve 104 positioned at the proximal end of housing 102 is configured to create a fluid-tight seal around endovascular device 1. According to a specific embodiment, valve 104 positioned at the distal end of housing 102 is configured to create a fluid-tight seal around endovascular device 1.

[0034] Also shown is an introduction port 105, which is disposed near one of valves 104. According to one embodiment, introduction port 105 is disposed in proximity to valve 104 positioned at the distal end of housing 102. Introduction port 105 is configured to allow fluids containing, for example, saline, contrast agent or dye (e.g., for medical imaging such as, for example, X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), angiography, and ultrasound) or medication, into the patient’s body via the fluid-tight space that contains endovascular device 1, as will be discussed in detail below. Introduction port105 may have its own valve or other mechanism to allow for the introduction of fluids while preventing any fluid leaks. In some embodiments, there may be only one introduction port 105. In other embodiments there may not be an introduction port 105, or there may be more than one introduction port 105. It should be understood that in some embodiments, housing 102 can take the place of an existing catheter hub due to the inclusion of valves 104 and introduction port 105.

[0035] Shown in FIGS. 2-3 is a cover 103 on housing 102. Cover 103 can be fixed to the remainder of housing 102 by any suitable method, including but not limited to, mechanical fasters, adhesives, or welding. In some embodiments, cover 103 is intended to be removable to, for example, assemble or service force meter 100. In other embodiments, cover 103 is permanently fixed to housing 102 during manufacturing of force meter 100 by a suitable technique (as discussed above).

[0036] FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of force meter 100 with cover 103 removed. This embodiment of force meter 100 shows a partially hollow housing 102. This means the interior of housing 102 is not completely hollow. Here, a completely hollow housing would be, for example, a hollow rectangular prism shape with solid walls that do not extend substantially into the hollow interior. According to one embodiment, the interior of housing 102 is at least partially solid, comprising openings or spaces to accommodate components of force meter 100 as needed. Typically, when housing 102 is partially hollow, a passage106 is defined in housing 102 and connects the ends of housing 102 that support valves104. Thus, passage 106 links two exterior sides of housing 102. Any two exterior sides of housing 102 can be linked by passage 106. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the two shorter sides of housing 102 are linked by passage 106. Passage 106 is sized to accommodate endovascular device 1 as it passes through housing 102. Passage 106 is formed with a bend or deviation from the straight line between the two exterior sides of housing 102, e.g., between valves 104. This bend forces endovascular device 1 into a corresponding bent shape that, as will be discussed below, allows for the force measurement to take place.

[0037] Also shown in FIG. 4 is tube 110. Tube 110 is a hollow tube that fluidly connects valves 104 (and introduction port 105, if applicable). Tube 110 is present in both partially hollow and fully hollow housings 102. Typically, when passage 106 is present in housing 102 (usually in a partially hollow housing 102), tube 110 passes through passage 106. Thus, tube 110 ensures that any fluid is kept contained and separated from the other components found in housing 102. Tube 110 also enables fluids to be safely pressure pushed via force meter 100 (e.g., via introduction port 105, discussed below) into the patient’s vasculature. That is, tube 110 can act as a fluid pathway that allows fluid to be passed through force meter 100. Accordingly, tube 110 enables to carry out the endovascular procedure without the force meter having an effect on the procedure itself. Tube 110 is sized to allow passage of endovascular device 1 therethrough. Tube 110 is also typically configured to be flexible and move with endovascular device 1 if endovascular device 1 flexes. According to one embodiment, the material for tube 110 is selected such that it will have high flexibility. According to one embodiment, the material for tube 110 is selected such that it will have low friction with respect to endovascular device 1. According to one embodiment, the material for tube 110 is selected such that it will not affect the baseline measurement of force meter 100. According to one embodiment, the material for tube 110 is selected such that the force measurement will reflect on the force generated by endovascular device 1 and not by tube 110. In some embodiments, tube 110 can be selected from a material including, but not limited to, polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”), Pebax, plastic, or silicone. According to one embodiment, tube 110 includes a coating or coil inside to minimize friction between tube 110 and endovascular device 1. Such a coating or coil may be selected from, but not limited to, a PTFE coating or a stainless-steel coil.

[0038] Support points 112 are also shown in FIG. 4. Support points 112 are portions of passage 106 that are configured to act as stops or supports for endovascular device 1, alsoreferred to as support structures. These stops physically prevent endovascular device 1 from moving beyond a certain point. Support points 112 can be separate inserts or elements embedded in passage 106, as shown in FIG. 4, or can also be formed as part of the walls that define passage 106. Alternatively, support points 112 can be separate inserts or elements embedded in housing 102, such as in situations wherein housing 102 is hollow and passage 106 is not present. In embodiments where support points 112 are separate inserts, these inserts can be selected to minimize friction between tube 110 and the surfaces of passage 106 or between tube 110 and the support points 112 themselves. For example, support points 112 can be patches of low-friction material such as PTFE, or could be devices like a roller or other rotating structure. Support points 112 included in a force meter 100 can be similar to one another or can be disparate from one another. It should be understood that the configuration of tube 110 and / or of passage 106 at least partially determines the placement and number of support points 112. According to one embodiment, the required bent configuration of tube 110 and / or of passage 106 at least partially determines the placement and number of support points 112. For example, support points 112 comprises a single support point disposed in housing 102. According to another embodiment, support points 112 comprises two or more support points, e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5 or more support points, disposed in housing 102. According to a specific embodiment, support points 112 comprise 2 or 3 support points disposed in housing 102. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, there are three support points 112. This is because of the doubleturn shape of the bend of passage 106 in FIG. 4. Further, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, there are two support points 112. This is because of the z-shape of the bend of passage 106 in FIG. 7. Other embodiments may have more or less support points 112 to accommodate and support the movement of tube 110 and endovascular device 1 therein.

[0039] A force sensor 120 is also shown in FIG. 4. Force sensor 120 is positioned inside housing 102 and configured to read a tensile force imparted from the interaction between endovascular device 1 (through hollow tube 110) and force sensor 120 upon retraction of the endovascular device from subject’s blood vessel through hollow tube 110. Force sensor 120 can be any suitable force sensor, including an analog sensor or a digital sensor. Exemplary sensors which may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the invention include, but are not limited to, load cell e.g., a piezoelectric sensor or a variable resistance sensor. Force sensor 120 is positioned inside housing 102. According to aspecific embodiment, force sensor 120 is positioned inside passage 106. According to a specific embodiment, force sensor 120 is positioned in proximity to a support point 112. According to a specific embodiment, force sensor 120 is positioned in the partially enclosed portion of the bend (e.g., in the inner portion of the bend) of tube 110. The combination of the bent portion of tube 110 and / or passage 106 and support points 112 guide endovascular device 1 to rest against force sensor 120. Note that in the embodiment of FIG. 4, where force sensor 120 is in direct contact with hollow tube 110, force sensor 120 is placed adjacent to one of support points 112 (in FIG. 4, the bottom center support point 112). This combination of features also means that any force applied along the length of endovascular device 1 will result in endovascular device 1 pressing against force sensor 120. Thus, when endovascular device 1 is pulled through hollow tube 110 (in a proximal direction) and encounters higher friction or an obstacle, the endovascular device tries to straighten the bent portion and shifts in an outwards direction with respect to the bend (i.e., creating a straighter shape of the hollow tube), and tensile force applied on the endovascular device can be measured using force sensor 120. The magnitude of the tensile force applied to endovascular device 1 directly corresponds to the force that endovascular device 1 exerts on force sensor 120. Thus, force sensor 120 measures a force that is correlated to the tensile force applied to endovascular device 1.

[0040] According to one embodiment, force sensor 120 can be configured to measure a tensile force as well as a push or compressive force applied on endovascular device 1. According to this embodiment, hollow tube 110 is configured to be preloaded or prestressed within housing 102. According to this configuration, when endovascular device 1 is pushed through hollow tube 110 (in a distal direction), the stress on hollow tube 110 is reduced and when endovascular device 1 is pulled (in a proximal direction), the stress on hollow tube 110 increases. The decrease or increase in stress can be measured using sensor 120.

[0041] FIG. 4A is a different embodiment of force meter 100 that is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4. This embodiment includes force sensor 120 as discussed above in the FIG. 4 embodiment. A force sensor 150 is also shown in FIG. 4A. Force sensor 150 is disposed inside housing 102 and configured to read a push or compressive force imparted from the interaction between endovascular device 1 (through hollow tube 110) and force sensor 150 upon pushing of endovascular device 1 through hollow tube 110 and into thesubject’s blood vessel. Force sensor 150 can be any suitable force sensor, including an analog sensor or a digital sensor. An exemplary sensor which may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the invention includes, but is not limited to, a strain gauge. Exemplary types of suitable strain gauges which may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the invention include, e.g., linear strain gauges, double linear strain gauges, a load cell, force sensor or any device which can translate contact force into electrical signal.

[0042] In this embodiment, force sensor 150 is positioned along the outskirt or outer curvature of the bend of hollow tube 110 (e.g., in proximity to the outer portion of the bend) and is configured to sense a push or compressive force applied on endovascular device 1 when endovascular device 1 is moved in a distal direction. For example, in embodiments, force sensor 150 can be coupled to the pair of support points 112 that surround the bend, with a portion of force sensor 150 in contact with hollow tube 110 in the outskirt of the bend region. Thus, when endovascular device 1 is pushed through hollow tube 110 (in a distal direction) and encounters higher friction or an obstacle, endovascular device 1 shifts towards the bend in hollow tube 110 (i.e., creating a more convex shape of the hollow tube) when a force is applied on endovascular device 1, thereby exerting a force on sensor 150. The magnitude of the compressive or push force applied to endovascular device 1 directly corresponds to the force that endovascular device 1 exerts on force sensor 150. Thus, force sensor 150 measures a force that is correlated to the push or compressive force applied to endovascular device 1. Force sensor 150 can also be fixed to another feature or features inside of housing 102, or to a portion or portions of housing 102, as long as force sensor 150 is fixed with respect to hollow tube 110 and can be placed in contact with hollow tube 110 in the bend region as discussed above. Because this embodiment of force meter 100 includes both forces sensor 120 and force sensor 150 both a tensile and compressive force on endovascular device 1 can be measured. However, other embodiments may only include force sensor 120 (as in FIG. 4) or force sensor 150 (as in FIG. 4B), and thus only measure the corresponding force.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a different side view of the embodiments of FIGS. 4-4B, 6-6B, and 7 that shows the opposite side of an embodiment of force meter 100 with a portion of housing 102 removed. FIG. 5 shows a circuit board 130 disposed in housing 102. Circuit board 130 can contain some or all of the electronic components necessary for operation of force meter100. In some embodiments, circuit board 130 includes processors and memory that are able to store and run the algorithms necessary to process the readings of force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150. FIG. 8 is a system diagram of the electronic components of force meter 100. As seen in FIG. 8, circuit board 130 includes one or more processors 131 and memory 132. Circuit board 130 is operably connected to force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150 to receive the force data from force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150. This data is a force reading. This force reading, as explained above, is the force imparted by endovascular device 1 pressing against force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150. These readings are converted to the force (e.g., push force, also referred to as compressive force, and / or pull force, also referred to as tensile force or tension force) applied along the length of endovascular device 1 by processor 131, which can use an experimentally determined equation or a data table to determine the corresponding force reading being applied to endovascular device 1. Circuit board 130 also includes a power source 133 for powering the electrical elements of force meter 100. Any suitable power source, such as but not limited to a battery, can be used for power source 133.

[0044] Also disposed on circuit board 130 is a transmitter 134. Transmitter 134 can be a wired or wireless communication transmitter. Transmitter 134 is operably connected to circuit board 130 and processor 131, is configured to receive the calculated force measurements and transmit those measurements to a suitable external receiver, as will be discussed below. In some embodiments, transmitter 134 can also include a receiving capability. Transmitter 134 can be any suitable data transmitter, including but not limited to, a universal serial bus (“USB”), Ethernet, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC or other wireless data protocol. Transmitter 134 may also include more than one transmit / receive capability, such as a USB capability and a Bluetooth capability. In embodiments with a wired communication capability, transmitter 134 can include a suitable external interface or socket, on housing 102, which can be sealed with a removable plug.

[0045] In some embodiments, the electronic components needed to collect and process the readings of force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150 may be located outside of housing 102. Thus, processor 131 above may be located on a remote computing device that has an external receiver 140 that is in contact with force meter 130 via transmitter 134. It should be understood that there still may be a process disposed on circuit board 130 in housing102 in these embodiments, but this processor may be programmed to receive sensor readings and transmit them using transmitter 134.

[0046] In some embodiments, a force indicator 136 is disposed in housing 102 and is operably connected to circuit board 130. Force indicator 136 can be used to indicate the magnitude of the tensile (pulling) and / or compressive (pushing) force being applied to endovascular device 1. FIG. 8 shows force indicator 136 to be a separate electrical component from circuit board 130. However, it should be understood that force indicator 136 could be physically disposed, at least in part, on circuit board 130. In some embodiments, force indicator 136 may be one or more lights visible from the exterior of housing 102. The lights may indicate force by changing color. For example, a green color may be displayed by force indicator 136 when the force readings are below a predetermined limit, a yellow color may be displayed by force indicator 136 when the force readings are approaching the predetermined limit, and a red color may be displayed by force indicator 136 when the force readings exceed the predetermined limit. Other light-based indications are possible, such as a flashing light to indicate exceeding the predetermined limit. Tensile and compressive forces can be assigned different colors to assist a user in differentiating the forces being measured.

[0047] In some embodiments, force indicator 136 can include a vibrating element disposed in housing 102. This vibrating element can be used to create a vibration that can be felt by a user holding force meter 100. The vibrating element can be used to create various vibrations to indicate the tensile and / or compressive force being applied on endovascular device 1. For example, an intermittent vibration may indicate that the predetermined force limit is being approached, while a constant vibration may indicate the predetermined force limit has been exceeded.

[0048] In some embodiments, force indicator 136 can also include an audio element disposed in housing 102. This audio element can be used to create a sound that can be heard by a user holding force meter 100. The audio element can create various sounds to indicate different tensile and / or compressive forces being applied on endovascular device, similar to the vibration element discussed above. For example, intermittent sounds may indicate that the predetermined force limit is being approached, while a constant sound may indicate the predetermined force limit has been exceeded. Tensile and compressive forces can beassigned different tones (e.g., at different frequencies) to assist a user in differentiating the forces being measured.

[0049] In some embodiments, force indicator 136 can include a display screen disposed on housing 102. The display screen can be any suitable type of display, such as but not limited to, an LCD display. The display screen can be used to display numerical force readings. The display screen can also display graphical indications of the force reading, such as but not limited to, using the numerical or using a graph, e.g., a bar graph or a line graph, and can display caution and warning icons when the predetermined force limit is being approached and exceeded, respectively.

[0050] Some embodiments of force indicator 136 include combinations of the options discussed above. Any combination is possible. For example, force indicator 136 may include both a vibrating element and lights. According to another embodiment, force indicator 136 may include both an audio element and lights. Other embodiments may include only the vibration element, only the audio element or only the lights. Other embodiments include presentation of the force measurement along with an audio element and / or light display and / or vibration.

[0051] As seen in FIG. 8, transmitter 134 can be operably connected to an external receiver 140. External receiver 140 can be any suitable computing device including, for example, a laptop, a desktop computer, a cellphone or a tablet. In some embodiments, external receiver 140 is a computing device that includes a display that can be used to show the force readings to the user of force meter 100. This can serve as an alternative indication of the force recorded by force meter 100, either in combination with or as a replacement for force indicator 136.

[0052] An embodiment of force meter 100 with a different measurement arrangement is shown in FIG. 6. The discussion above regarding housing 102, valves 104, introduction port 105, passage 106, support points 112, and tube 110 applies equally here. This embodiment differs by placing force sensor 120 out of direct contact with hollow tube 110. Force sensor 120 is instead placed apart from tube 110 in housing 102. A lever 122 that has a pivot point 123 extends between force sensor 120 and tube 110, where lever 122 is in contact with endovascular device 1 (through hollow tube 110). Force applied to endovascular device 1 will be transmitted to lever 122, which in turn transmits the force to force sensor 120. Although this force is not a direct measurement of the pulling force(tension force), it is directly correlated to the pulling force (tension force), and thus these measurements can be used to calculate the tensile force by a suitable algorithm or look-up table determined by experiment. An advantage of the indirect measurement is that the arrangement of lever 122 and force sensor 120 allows for the force measured by force sensor 120 to be multiplied due to the leverage created by this arrangement. This has the benefit of increasing the force being measured by force sensor 120, which improves measurement accuracy because the magnitude of the forces in question is generally small, making those forces more difficult to measure accurately. This can also improve sensitivity of force sensor 120 because the forces being measured by force sensor 120 are larger. Accordingly, positioning of pivot point 123 can be used to multiply the force applied on force sensor 120 by moving pivot point 123 closer to force sensor 120 (as shown in FIG. 6). In either the direct contact embodiment of FIG. 4 or the lever embodiment of FIG. 6 (e.g., presenting indirect contact between hollow tube 110 and force sensor 120), an adjustment screw may be placed between force sensor 120 and the relevant structure (e.g., lever 122) to allow for adjustment of the sensitivity and readings of force sensor 120. Force sensor 120 is otherwise identical to force sensor 120 discussed above. The discussion of circuit board 130 and other electrical components above applies equally herein. FIG. 6 A shows an embodiment of force meter 100 that is identical to that of FIG. 6 but that also includes a force sensor 150 to measure push or compressive force. Force sensor 150 is identical to force sensor 150 discussed above in FIG. 4A but applied to the FIG. 6 embodiment. Because this embodiment of force meter 100 includes both forces sensor 120 and force sensor 150 both a tensile and compressive force on endovascular device 1 can be measured. However, other embodiments may only include force sensor 120 (as in FIG. 6) or force sensor 150 (as in FIG. 6B), and thus only measure the corresponding force.

[0053] FIG. 7 shows a different embodiment of force meter 100 that uses lever 122. In this embodiment, valves 104 are not arranged linearly because the bend in passage 106 is z- shaped such that valves 104 are not on the same level of housing 102. In some embodiments of FIG. 7, there are two fixed support points 112, which provide the z-shape of the bend of passage 106. According to some embodiments, support points 112 are constructed as part of lever 122. According to one embodiment, lever 122 is disposed in passage 106 and is formed such that hollow tube 110 and endovascular device 1 pass though lever 122. Thus, according to one embodiment, a passage is formed in lever 122 allowing the hollow tubeto pass through a well-defined position of lever 122. According to one embodiment, pivot point 123 is positioned near the center of lever 122. Alternatively, the positioning of pivot point 123 may be altered to adjust the force applied on force sensor 120 or force sensor 150, as discussed above. It will be appreciated that force sensor 120 or force sensor 150 may be placed above or below lever 122, as long as it comes in contact, i.e., direct contact or indirect contact (e.g., via an adjustment screw), with lever 122, as discussed above. A force applied along the length of endovascular device 1 will result in rotation of lever 122 about pivot point 123. For example, a tensile force applied from the right to the left in FIG. 7 would rotate lever 122 counter-clockwise because of the shape of passage 106 and lever 122. Alternatively, a compressive force applied from the left to the right in FIG. 7 would rotate lever 122 clockwise because of the shape of passage 106 and lever 122. According to an embodiment of FIG. 7, either force sensor 120 or force sensor 150 may be used to measure the tensile force and / or compressive force on endovascular device 1. Lever 122 contacts force sensor 120 or force sensor 150, which measures the force as discussed above. This arrangement results in a multiplication of the force on force sensor 120 or force sensor 150 for the same reasons discussed above. The remaining discussion above with respect to the other components for force meter 100 apply equally here.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows an example of an embodiment of force meter 100 that uses a mechanical connection to detect and display the detected force from endovascular device 1. The embodiments discussed above regarding housing 102, valves 104, introduction port 105, passage 106, support points 112, and tube 110 apply equally here. Specifically, in this embodiment, housing 102 includes hollow tube 110 passing through passage 106. In embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, there are one or more support points 112. Here, for example, there are three support points 112 to create the bend in hollow tube 110. A member 1002 is disposed inside housing 102 such that it is in contact with hollow tube 110, thereby forming one support point 112. Member 1002 is slidingly disposed in housing 102 such that movement of hollow tube 110 will move member 1002. In this embodiment, member 1002 is linearly movable in the vertical direction (the direction perpendicular to the direction between the ends of the passage 106). However, member 1002 may be configured for rotational movement. A bias member 1003, such as a spring, biases member 1002 into a position where it is in contact with hollow tube 110. An indicator 1004 is also placed in housing 102. Indicator 1004 is rotatably mounted in housing 102 and containsmarkings or indicia to indicate a detected force. A window 1009 is formed in housing 102 to allow indicator 1004 (and the markings on indicator 1004) to be visible from an exterior of housing 102. Window 1009 can be formed from any suitable transparent material and may be an integral part of housing 102.

[0055] According to one embodiment, a plurality of gear teeth 1006 are formed on and fixed to member 1002. A corresponding gear 1008 is formed on and fixed to indicator 1004. Gear teeth 1006 and gear 1008 are meshed such that linear movement of member 1002 will rotate gear 1008, and indicator 1004, via this meshing. When a tensile force is applied to endovascular device 1, hollow tube 110 tends to straighten, which in turn displaces member 1002 upwards in the structure illustrated in FIG. 10 because of the configuration of the bend in hollow tube 110. This, in turn, actuates indicator 1004 to rotate in a clockwise direction via the meshing of gear teeth 1006 and gear 1008, and thus displays the resulting force. Alternatively, when a compressive force is applied to endovascular device 1, hollow tube 110 tends to shift towards the bend to create a more convex shape, which in turn displaces member 1002 downwards in the structure illustrated in FIG. 10 because of the configuration of the bend in hollow tube 110. This, in turn, actuates indicator 1004 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction via the meshing of gear teeth 1006 and gear 1008, and thus displays the resulting force. Since the force meter 100 illustrated in FIG. 10 may measure the tensile force and / or compressive force, indicator 1004 may comprise markings to distinguish between the different forces. For example, the markings may be presented in different colors, or by marking of plus (+) and minus (-) signs. Some of these embodiments of force meter 100 have no electrical components and require no electrical power to operate to display the force.

[0056] Other embodiments of force meter 100 function similarly to the embodiment of FIG. 10 but include lever 122 as discussed with respect to FIG. 6 above. Member 1002 is placed at the interior end of lever 122 (opposite the end of lever 122 in contact with hollow tube 110) and otherwise functions as discussed above.

[0057] FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of force meter 100 that is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 10 but includes a lever 1102 that functions similarly to lever 122 of FIG. 7 discussed above. In this embodiment, gear teeth 1006 are placed on the outer surface of lever 1102 and move with the movement of lever 1102 induced by force on hollow tube 110. According to a specific embodiment, gear teeth 1006 rotate with the rotationalmovement of lever 1102 induced by force on hollow tube 110. Indicator 1004 is moved, in turn, by gear 1008, which is meshed with gear teeth 1006. This embodiment otherwise operates as discussed above with respect to FIG. 10.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 9, a method 300 of using force meter 100 begins at a step 302 by inserting endovascular device 1 into force meter 100. As discussed above, valves 104 can be used to seal the interior of force meter 100 to avoid flow of fluids. A step 304 involves applying a tensile (pulling) and / or compressive (pushing) force to endovascular device 1. At step 306, force sensor 120, and / or force sensor 150, and / or the mechanical detection systems of FIGS. 10 and 11 detect the force applied. In the electronic embodiments of force sensor 120 and / or force sensor 150 a processor 131 processes that force to the corresponding tensile and / or compressive force applied to endovascular device 1. At step 308, the resulting applied force is displayed to the user, either by indicator 136 or by transmission via transmitter 134 to external receiver 140 for the electronic embodiments. The mechanical embodiments display the force as discussed above for those embodiments.

[0059] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are further provided below.Example 1

[0060] In one example, a force meter for an endovascular device comprises a housing; a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device; a member disposed in the housing and mechanically coupled to the hollow tube such that the member displaces when a force is applied to the endovascular device; and an indicator mechanically coupled to the member and configured to present the force when the member is displaced.Example 2

[0061] The force meter of example 1, wherein the indicator is rotatably fixed to the housing, and / or comprises a gear that is mechanically connected to the member, the gear configured to rotate the indicator when the member displaces when the tensile force is applied from the endovascular device.Example 3

[0062] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising: a passage in the housing connecting two exterior sides of the housing and configured to receive the hollow tube.Example 4

[0063] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend.Example 5

[0064] The force meter of example 4, wherein the at least one support point is disposed in the passage and configured to contact the hollow tube.Example 6

[0065] The force meter of example 4 or 5, wherein the at least one support point comprises one support point.Example 7

[0066] The force meter of example 4 or 5, wherein the at least one support point comprises two or more support points.Example 8

[0067] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, wherein the member is positioned directly in contact with the hollow tube.Example 9

[0068] The force meter of example 8, wherein the member is positioned to move linearly in response to the force applied from the endovascular device.Example 10

[0069] The force meter of example 8, wherein the member is positioned to move rotationally in response to the force applied from the endovascular device.Example 11

[0070] The force meter of example 9, wherein the member comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear, and wherein the linear movement of the member is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.Example 12

[0071] The force meter of example 10, wherein the member comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear, and wherein the rotational movement of the member is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.Example 13

[0072] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, wherein the member comprises: a lever disposed in the housing and fixed to a pivot, the lever containing an opening to allow the hollow tube to pass through the lever, the lever being configured to transmit a force applied from the endovascular device to the member.Example 14

[0073] The force meter of example 13, wherein the lever comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear.Example 14A

[0074] The force meter of example 14, wherein the lever rotates about the pivot when the force is applied from the endovascular device and wherein the rotational movement of the lever is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.Example 14B

[0075] The force meter of any one of examples 1-7, further comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the member, the lever configured to transmit a force applied from the endovascular device to the member.Example 15

[0076] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a spring disposed in the housing, the spring configured to bias the member to a first position.Example 16

[0077] The force meter of example 15, wherein the member is in contact with the hollow tube in the first position.Example 17

[0078] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the member, the lever configured to transmit a force applied from the endovascular device to the member.Example 18

[0079] The force meter of any of the preceding examples, wherein there are no electrical components disposed inside the housing.Example 18A

[0080] The force meter of any of the preceding examples, wherein the force comprises at least one of a tensile force and a compressive force.Example 19

[0081] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a window formed in the housing, the indicator being positioned to be visible from an exterior of the housing through the window.Example 20

[0082] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, wherein the hollow tube is a flexible hollow tube.Example 21

[0083] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a valve disposed on an exterior side of the housing, wherein the hollow tube is connected to the valve at the exterior side of the housing, the valve being configured to receive the endovascular device and fluids.Example 22

[0084] The force meter of example 21, further comprising an introduction port disposed in proximity to the at least one valve and configured to allow introduction of fluids.Example 23

[0085] A system for measuring tensile force applied to an endovascular device comprises the force meter of any one of the preceding examples; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.Example 24

[0086] The system of example 23, wherein the endovascular device comprises at least one of a clot retrieval device, a device comprising an expandable mesh, a device comprising a snare, a device comprising a coil, a guidewire, a balloon catheter, and a stent.Example 25

[0087] The system of example 23 or 24, wherein the tensile force applied to the endovascular device is at least partially impacted when the endovascular device is retracted through a blood vessel.Example 26

[0088] A method of using a force meter to detect a tensile force applied to an endovascular device comprises passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter of any one of the preceding examples; detecting a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the member disposed in the housing; and displaying the tensile force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.Example 27

[0089] In one example, a force meter for an endovascular device, comprises a housing, a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device, at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend, and a sensor disposed in the housing and positioned in the outskirt of the bend, the sensor configured to sense a compressive force applied on the endovascular device.Example 28

[0090] The force meter of example 27, wherein the endovascular device pushes towards the bend when the compressive force is applied on the endovascular device, thereby exerting a force on the sensor.Example 29

[0091] The force meter of example 27 or 28, comprising a second sensor disposed in the housing and positioned in the partially enclosed portion of the bend, the second sensor configured to sense a tensile force applied on the endovascular device.Example 30

[0092] The force meter of example 29, wherein the endovascular device shifts in an outwards direction with respect to the bend when tensile force is applied on the endovascular device, thereby exerting a force on the second sensor.Example 31

[0093] The force meter of any one of examples 27-30, wherein the hollow tube is a flexible hollow tube.Example 32

[0094] The force meter of any one of examples 27-31, wherein at least one of the sensor and the second sensor is positioned directly in contact with the hollow tube.Example 33A

[0095] The force meter of any one of examples 27-32, comprising a passage in the housing connecting two exterior sides of the housing and configured to receive the hollow tube.Example 33B

[0096] The force meter of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend.Example 34

[0097] The force meter of example 33B, wherein the at least one support point is disposed in the passage and configured to contact the hollow tube.Example 35

[0098] The force meter of any one of examples 27-34, wherein the at least one support point comprises at least two support points.Example 36

[0099] The force meter of any one of examples 27-34, wherein the at least one support point comprises at least three support points.Example 37

[0100] The force meter of any one of examples 27-36, comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the sensor, the lever configured to transmit a compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor.Example 38

[0101] The force meter of any one of examples 29-37, comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the secondsensor, the lever configured to transmit a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the second sensor.Example 39

[0102] The force meter of any one of examples 27-38, comprising electronic components disposed in the housing and configured to receive a reading from at least one of the sensor and the second sensor, and to determine a force applied to the endovascular device based on the reading.Example 40

[0103] The force meter of example 39, comprising a transmitter disposed in the housing, the transmitter operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the transmitter to transmit at least one of the readings from at least one of the sensor and the second sensor to the endovascular device to an external receiver.Example 41

[0104] The force meter of example 39, comprising a transmitter disposed in the housing, the transmitter operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the transmitter to transmit at least one of the readings from at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device to an external receiver.Example 42

[0105] The force meter of example 40 or 41, wherein the transmitter comprises a wireless transmitter.Example 43

[0106] The force meter of any one of examples 39-42, comprising at least one of a processor and a memory disposed in the housing and operably connected to the electronic components.Example 44

[0107] The force meter of any one of examples 39-43, comprising an indicator disposed in the housing, the indicator operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the indicator to indicate at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device.Example 45

[0108] The force meter of example 44, wherein the indicator comprises a light disposed in the housing and visible from an exterior of the housing.Example 46

[0109] The force meter of example 44, wherein the indicator comprises a vibrating element disposed in the housing.Example 47

[0110] The force meter of example 44, wherein the indicator comprises an audio element disposed in the housing.Example 48[OHl] The force meter of any one of examples 27-47, comprising a valve disposed on an exterior side of the housing, wherein the hollow tube is connected to the valve at the exterior side of the housing, the valve being configured to receive the endovascular device and fluids.Example 49

[0112] The force meter of example 48, comprising an introduction port disposed in proximity to the at least one valve and configured to allow introduction of fluids.Example 50

[0113] According to one example, there is provided a system for measuring a compressive force applied to an endovascular device. The system comprises: the force meter of any one of the previous examples; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.Example 51

[0114] According to one example, there is provided a system for measuring a force applied to an endovascular device, the force comprising a compressive force and a tensile force. The system comprises: the force meter of any one of examples 27-49; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.Example 52

[0115] The system of example 50 or 51, wherein the endovascular device comprises at least one of a clot retrieval device, a device comprising an expandable mesh, a device comprising a snare, a device comprising a coil, a guidewire, a balloon catheter, and a stent.Example 53

[0116] The system of example 50 or 51, wherein the compressive force applied to the endovascular device is at least partially impacted when the endovascular device is advanced through a blood vessel.Example 54

[0117] The system of example 51, wherein the tensile force applied to the endovascular device is at least partially impacted when the endovascular device is retracted through a blood vessel.Example 55

[0118] According to one example, there is provided a method of using a force meter to detect a compressive force applied to an endovascular device. The method comprises: passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter of any one of the previous examples; detecting a compressive and / or tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor disposed in the housing; and displaying the compressive force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.Example 56

[0119] According to one example, there is provided a method of using a force meter to detect a force applied to an endovascular device, the force comprising a compressive force and a tensile force. The method comprises: passing an endovascular device through ahollow tube of the force meter of any one of examples 27-49; detecting a compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor disposed in the housing; detecting a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the second sensor disposed in the housing; and displaying the force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.Example 57

[0120] The method of example 55 or 56, transmitting at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force to an external receiver using a transmitter disposed in the housing.Example 58

[0121] The method of any one of examples 55-57, comprising indicating at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device using an indicator disposed in the housing.Example 59

[0122] The method of example 58, wherein indicating the tensile force comprises at least one of illuminating a light disposed in the housing and visible from an exterior of the housing, vibrating a vibrating element disposed in the housing and using an audio element disposed in the housing.Example 60

[0123] The method of example 55, wherein the force comprises at least one of a tensile force and a compressive force.

[0124] It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention and the appended claims in any way. Moreover, the examples described above do not limit the present disclosure to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present disclosure includes both combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art.

[0125] The use of the modifiers “approximately” or “about” in this disclosure are intended to indicate that the relevant element is subject to variation by a tolerance range. Unless otherwise defined, the use of these modifiers with respect to a unit of measure means a tolerance of plus or minus ten percent of the unit of measure. The use of these modifiers with respect to a description such as a shape is intended to allow for variations of that shape due to tolerance issues as would be understood to occur in the art in general.

[0126] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

[0127] Various features of the invention which are, for clarity, described in the contexts of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A force meter for an endovascular device, comprising: a housing; a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device; a member disposed in the housing and mechanically coupled to the hollow tube such that the member displaces when a force is applied to the endovascular device; and an indicator mechanically coupled to the member and configured to present the force when the member is displaced.

2. The force meter of claim 1, wherein the indicator: is rotatably fixed to the housing, and / or comprises a gear that is mechanically connected to the member, the gear configured to rotate the indicator when the member displaces when the force is applied from the endovascular device.

3. The force meter of any one of claims 1-2, further comprising a passage in the housing connecting two exterior sides of the housing and configured to receive the hollow tube.

4. The force meter of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend.

5. The force meter of claim 4, wherein the at least one support point is disposed in the passage and configured to contact the hollow tube.

6. The force meter of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the member is positioned directly in contact with the hollow tube.

7. The force meter of claim 6, wherein the member is positioned to move linearly in response to the force applied from the endovascular device.

8. The force meter of claim 6, wherein the member is positioned to move rotationally in response to the force applied from the endovascular device.

9. The force meter of claim 7, wherein the member comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear, and wherein the linear movement of the member is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.

10. The force meter of claim 8, wherein the member comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear, and wherein the rotational movement of the member is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.

11. The force meter of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the member comprises: a lever disposed in the housing and fixed to a pivot, the lever containing an opening to allow the hollow tube to pass through the lever, the lever being configured to transmit a force applied from the endovascular device to the member.

12. The force meter of claim 11, wherein the lever comprises a plurality of gear teeth positioned to mesh with the gear.

13. The force meter of claim 12, wherein the lever rotates about the pivot when the force is applied from the endovascular device and wherein the rotational movement of the lever is configured to rotate the gear by movement of the plurality of gear teeth.

14. The force meter of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the member, the lever configured to transmit a force applied from the endovascular device to the member.

15. The force meter of any one of claims 1-14, further comprising a spring disposed in the housing, the spring configured to bias the member to a first position.

16. The force meter of claim 15, wherein the member is in contact with the hollow tube in the first position.

17. The force meter of any of claims 1-16, wherein there are no electrical components disposed inside the housing.

18. The force meter of any of claims 1-17, wherein the force comprises at least one of a tensile force and a compressive force.

19. The force meter of any one of claims 1-18, further comprising a window formed in the housing, the indicator being positioned to be visible from an exterior of the housing through the window.

20. A force meter for an endovascular device, comprising: a housing; a hollow tube disposed in the housing formed with a bend, the hollow tube extending between two exterior sides of the housing and being configured to receive the endovascular device; at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend; and a sensor disposed in the housing and positioned in the outskirt of the bend, the sensor configured to sense a compressive force applied on the endovascular device.

21. The force meter of claim 20, wherein the endovascular device pushes towards the bend when the compressive force is applied on the endovascular device, thereby exerting a force on the sensor.

22. The force meter of claim 20 or 21, further comprising a second sensor disposed in the housing and positioned in the partially enclosed portion of the bend, the second sensor configured to sense a tensile force applied on the endovascular device.

23. The force meter of claim 22, wherein the endovascular device pushes in an outwards direction with respect to the bend when tensile force is applied on the endovascular device, thereby exerting a force on the second sensor.

24. The force meter of any one of claims 22-23, wherein at least one of the sensor and the second sensor is positioned directly in contact with the hollow tube.

25. The force meter of any one of claims 20-24, further comprising a passage in the housing connecting two exterior sides of the housing and configured to receive the hollow tube.

26. The force meter of any one of claims 20-25, further comprising at least one support point disposed in the housing and configured to contact the hollow tube to support the bend.

27. The force meter of claim 26, wherein the at least one support point is disposed in the passage and configured to contact the hollow tube.

28. The force meter of any one of claims 20-27, further comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the sensor, the lever configured to transmit a compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor.

29. The force meter of any one of claims 22-28, further comprising a lever disposed in the housing, the lever fixed to a pivot and positioned such that one portion of the lever is in contact with the hollow tube and a second portion of the lever is in contact with the second sensor, the lever configured to transmit a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the second sensor.

30. The force meter of any one of claims 20-29, further comprising electronic components disposed in the housing and configured to receive a reading from at least one of the sensor and the second sensor, and to determine a force applied to the endovascular device based on the reading.

31. The force meter of claim 30, further comprising a transmitter disposed in the housing, the transmitter operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the transmitter to transmit at least one of the readingsfrom at least one of the sensor and the second sensor to the endovascular device to an external receiver.

32. The force meter of claim 30, further comprising a transmitter disposed in the housing, the transmitter operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the transmitter to transmit at least one of the readings from at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device to an external receiver.

33. The force meter of claim 31 or 32, wherein the transmitter comprises a wireless transmitter.

34. The force meter of any one of claims 30-33, further comprising at least one of a processor and a memory disposed in the housing and operably connected to the electronic components.

35. The force meter of any one of claims 30-34, further comprising an indicator disposed in the housing, the indicator operably connected to the electronic components, wherein the electronic components are configured to use the indicator to indicate at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device.

36. The force meter of any one of claims 1-35, wherein the hollow tube is a flexible hollow tube.

37. The force meter of any one of claims 1-36, further comprising at least one valve disposed on an exterior side of the housing, wherein the hollow tube is connected to the at least one valve at the exterior side of the housing, the at least one valve being configured to receive at least one of the endovascular device and fluids.

38. The force meter of claim 37, further comprising an introduction port disposed in proximity to the at least one valve and configured to allow introduction of fluids.

39. A system for measuring tensile force applied to an endovascular device, comprising: the force meter of any one of claims 1-19 or 36-38; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.

40. A system for measuring a compressive force applied to an endovascular device, comprising: the force meter of any one of claims 1-38; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.

41. A system for measuring a force applied to an endovascular device, the force comprising a compressive force and a tensile force, comprising: the force meter of any one of claims 1-19 or 22-38; and an endovascular device disposed through the hollow tube of the force meter.

42. The system of any one of claims 39-41, wherein the endovascular device comprises at least one of a clot retrieval device, a device comprising an expandable mesh, a device comprising a snare, a device comprising a coil, a guidewire, a balloon catheter, and a stent.

43. The system of claim 40 or 41, wherein the compressive force applied to the endovascular device is at least partially impacted when the endovascular device is advanced through a blood vessel.

44. The system of claim 39 or 41, wherein the tensile force applied to the endovascular device is at least partially impacted when the endovascular device is retracted through a blood vessel.

45. A method of using a force meter to detect a tensile force applied to an endovascular device, comprising: passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter of any one of claims 1-19 or 36-38; detecting a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the member disposed in the housing; and displaying the tensile force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the force comprises at least one of a tensile force and a compressive force.

47. A method of using a force meter to detect a compressive force applied to an endovascular device, comprising: passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter of any one of claims 20-38; detecting a compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor disposed in the housing; and displaying the compressive force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.

48. A method of using a force meter to detect a force applied to an endovascular device, the force comprising a compressive force and a tensile force, comprising: passing an endovascular device through a hollow tube of the force meter of any one of claims 22-38; detecting a compressive force applied from the endovascular device to the sensor disposed in the housing; detecting a tensile force applied from the endovascular device to the second sensor disposed in the housing; and displaying the force applied to the endovascular device using the indicator.

49. The method of claim 47 or 48, transmitting at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force to an external receiver using a transmitter disposed in the housing.

50. The method of any one of claims 45-49, further comprising indicating at least one of the compressive force and the tensile force applied to the endovascular device using an indicator disposed in the housing.

Images